Andy Carroll Signs for Newcastle United

West Ham United's English striker Andy Carroll gestures during the English Premier League football match between Manchester City and West Ham United at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, north west England, on February 27, 2019. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo credit should read OLI SCARFF/AFP/Getty Images)

Newcastle United Sign Andy Carroll After His Release by West Ham

The 30-year-old from Gateshead last played for Newcastle back in 2011. Liverpool spent 35 million pounds to lure the target man to Anfield but there were question marks over the transfer. A delighted Andy Carroll has expressed his eagerness to return to Newcastle. Carroll went on to say he was left with ‘no option’ to leave Newcastle suggesting a return to the Toon has left him delighted.

Difficult Post-Newcastle Career

Carroll’s stint at Liverpool was underwhelming. The striker didn’t seem to fit into the Liverpool team and injuries hampered any momentum that threatened to appear. West Ham signed Carroll for 2 million pounds after an initial loan spell. Carroll spent 6 more seasons at West Ham and racked up a total of 142 appearances with 34 goals. After only making 14 appearances in his final season with West Ham, the club released Carroll.

Rumours soon appeared linking the striker to a return to Newcastle and the deal has not caused much surprise. Newcastle United must replace Salamon Rondon and Ayoze Perez after their departures. Although Newcastle have their new signing Joelinton, he is an unknown quantity in the Premier League. Steve Bruce has brought Carroll in to add much-needed experience to the front line.

A long list of injuries will always mar the quality of Carroll as the striker often finds game time-restricted. The striker has found reoccurring ankle issues limit his game time but underwent surgery to remedy this earlier this year. Previously Carroll’s seasons have been interrupted by groin injuries, knee injuries, torn ligaments, fractured foot, hamstring tears, and thigh injuries. Many Newcastle fans have expressed despair over the signing regarding it as a risk not worth taking.

Clever Business in Uncertain Times

Steve Bruce will presumably see this as a fantastic move for club and player. The chance to sign an experienced Premier League striker for free in the club’s current circumstances would be hard to pass up. Furthermore, Andy Carroll gets to rejoin the club he never wanted to leave. Andy Carroll may be the difference in many games. He offers superiority in the air, strength, and experience. If Newcastle can somehow keep Andy Carroll fit, then he will certainly boost their chances of survival.